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Puberty is the time at which a growing boy or girl begins the process of sexual maturation. Puberty involves a series of physical stages or steps that lead to the achievement of fertility and the development of the so-called secondary sex characteristics, the physical features associated with adult males and females (such as the growth of pubic hair). While puberty involves a series of biological, or physical, transformations, the process can also have an effect on the psychosocial and emotional development of the adolescent.
The onset of puberty varies among individuals. Puberty usually occurs in girls between the ages of 10 and 14, while in boys it generally occurs later, between the ages of 12 and 16. In some African American girls, puberty begins earlier, at about age 9, meaning that puberty occurs from ages 9 to 14.
Adolescent girls reach puberty today at earlier ages...
Do not use nafarelin nasal if you have:
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using nafarelin nasal, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use nafarelin nasal if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective barrier form of birth control (such as a condom or diaphragm with spermicide gel or inserts). Hormonal forms of contraception (such as birth control pills, injections, implants, skin patches, and vaginal rings) may not be effective enough to prevent pregnancy during your treatment.
It is not known whether nafarelin nasal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
To use the nasal spray:
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis, especially during the first 6 to 8 weeks of treatment. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
When you first start using nafarelin nasal to treat precocious puberty, you may notice an increase in signs of puberty, such as enlarged breasts or vaginal bleeding. These are normal side effects of this medication during the first month of use. If such pubertal signs continue for longer than 1 month, contact your doctor.
It is important to use nafarelin nasal regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Store nafarelin nasal at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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